One State Is Making it Easier to Get Treatment for Postpartum Depression

Great news for Texas moms: Treatment for postpartum depression (PPD) is about to become a whole lot more accessible. This Thursday, Governor Greg Abbott signed the bipartisan House Bill 2466 into law, which guarantees screenings and counseling for postpartum depression during baby’s first doctor’s visits to new moms who rely on Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

"Passing this bill is a key step toward connecting more new moms with the treatment they need to get healthy and support their babies' health," Stephanie Rubin, executive director for the nonprofit Texans Care for Children, told the Texas Tribune.

A 2016 report from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission and the Texas Department of State Health Services found that about 17 percent of Texas moms experience PPD — a rate that’s about in line with national estimates.

There’s no doubt that mental health care is essential throughout life, but especially after the birth of a child — when a huge life change combined with a roller coaster of hormones means that many moms suffer from PPD, often in silence. In ensuring Texas moms have access to the counseling and support they need, the state is taking a much-needed step toward addressing maternal mortality and giving babies the best possible start to life. Hopefully this state’s actions will inspire other states around the nation to take similar action to protect all moms and their babies.

What this means for you

Up to 80 percent of new moms experience the "baby blues" — or feeling weepy, irritable, exhausted, anxious and having trouble sleeping — in the two weeks immediately post-birth. However, if these feelings continue for longer than three weeks and/or are more pronounced, you’re more likely experiencing PPD.

If you think you’re experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression — including crying irritability, severe anxiety, feelings of persistent sadness, worthlessness or hopelessness, social isolation or loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy — talk to your doctor. Left untreated, PPD can affect your relationship with your baby and lead to risks of major long-term depression and harming yourself or your baby.

Fortunately, you don’t have to suffer alone. There are safe and effective treatments for PPD if you seek out professional help. Don’t feel embarrassed or blame yourself. Postpartum depression is super common among new moms, and it’s not your fault. So reach out to a health professional if you’re concerned about your safety or the safety of your baby. Take the steps to get the treatment you need — for both yourself and your baby.